The Baltimore Orioles were never going to win every game. And today was their first loss, despite a decent effort from starter Tyler Wells. After two big games at the plate, Oriole bats were largely held quiet today. Wells’ line: 5.0 IP, 5 H, 4 R (3 earned), 0 BB, 7 K.
After giving up a couple of runs early, Wells kept the O’s in the game. Their bats just couldn’t step up today. And that does happen – you’ll take winning two-of-three over anyone.
Wells gave up a solo homer to Ward in the first inning. As poor as Anaheim looked in this series, Ward was definitely a leader. Neto would add a two-RBI single in the second, and a fourth run would score on a throwing error by James McCann on a pickoff attempt at third base. And the Birds trailed, 4-0.
But the O’s would get on the board in the last of that second inning when Gunnar Henderson would draw a bases loaded walk. However, that was the lone run the O’s would tack on. Both teams’ pitching staffs shut down the other, and Anaheim took the series finale, 4-1.
The O’s did lightly threaten in the last of the seventh. James McCann got aboard with a one out single, followed by new Oriole Tony Kemp who was acquired just before Opening Day. Kemp drew a walk, however the inning ended before the Birds could further threaten.
The story is in HOW Kemp drew the walk. With a three ball count, Anaheim pitcher Detmers was called for a pitch clock violation, resulting in a ball being awarded. And that happened to be ball four.
Manager Ron Washington came out and had a fairly “spirited” conversation with Detmers and the infield. That’s an unforced error that could really cost a team in a game. The Orioles couldn’t take advantage, but that’s beside the point.
Wherever you stand on some of the newer pace of play rules, it would be interesting to see how things would play out if they ever decided a big game. Maybe I’m thinking of a playoff game or a late season game. But you get the point – would the league be okay with a key run scoring and deciding a huge game over something like that?
The O’s will welcome Kansas City in tomorrow for the first of three at Camden Yards. Dean Kremer gets the start for the Birds, and he’ll be opposed by Kansas City’s Michael Wacha. Game time is set for just after 6:30 PM.
Birdland Crush 